Seminar on “Hong Kong fashion and textile industry – The road to sustainability”

In view of the growing trends of sustainability and green manufacturing in the fashion and textile industry, the Institute of International Sustainable Development (ISD) has initiated a project entitled “The road to sustainability – a study on sustainable development of Hong Kong fashion and textile industry”, with the funding support from the Trade and Industrial Organisation Support Fund of the Trade and Industry Department, HKSAR Government, to carry out a research study for the sustainable development of Hong Kong fashion and textile industry.

The research study has been started in 2022 for one year through desktop research, a questionnaire survey, and stakeholder interviews. Through this study, ISD hopes to facilitate Hong Kong fashion and textile enterprises better understand their progress in green manufacturing in comparison with other regions, as well as arouse the awareness of practitioners of Hong Kong fashion and textile industry on important sustainability and green manufacturing trends and enhance their knowledge on managing green manufacturing.

Excited to share the results of our efforts for the industry’s reference, ISD organised a seminar for the first time release of the research findings and invited representatives from The Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Trade Development Council Garment Advisory Committee, Textile Council of Hong Kong, Sustainable Fashion Business Consortium, Hong Kong Footwear Association, Hong Kong Fashion Designers Association, Hong Kong Fur Federation, Hong Kong Woollen & Synthetic Knitting Manufacturers’ Association, The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel, Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute, Federation of Hong Kong Brands, Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and stakeholders of the Hong Kong fashion and textile industry to share the latest information and insights on sustainability.

At the seminar, industry professionals analysed and discussed issues related to sustainable development. For instance, Dr. Lo from Hong Kong Polytechnic University shared industry data, including the carbon footprint of well-known brands and the average carbon footprint of products, as well as some practices of international famous brands. Besides, The Hong Kong Research Institute of Textiles and Apparel introduced innovative technologies such as the sonic microplastic fiber separation system and smart clothing sorting system for recycling, which are committed to using innovative technology to promote sustainable development in the industry. Representatives of small and medium-sized enterprises in the industry also shared their current good practices. In addition, The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation and Hong Kong Productivity Council provided advice on capital sources, including green loans and government fundings.

The seminar provided a platform for industry professionals to share knowledge and experiences, and to collaborate on promoting sustainable development in the industry. By discussing key issues and sharing best practices, the industry can work together to address sustainability challenges and create a more sustainable future.